TWO teams that faltered in their very first games of the season will clash on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019, as the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters take on the University of Southern Philippines-Foundation (USP-F) Panthers in the 2019 Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) men’s basketball tournament at the Cebu Coliseum.

UC got beaten by the Southwestern University (SWU-Phinma) Cobras, 58-65, while USP-F faltered in overtime and lost to the University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors, 75-80.

Both teams have had a week to look at the tape and make necessary adjustments in time for their clash on Tuesday.

“We need to improve our communication and defensive mindset. We failed to execute in the endgame; we committed crucial turnovers,” said UC’s lead assistant coach Rafael Alcoseba.

He added that it’s crucial for the players to learn from each game and improve from there.

“It’s important that at every game we learn and improve. So we have to maintain our focus.”

On the other side, USP-F head coach Brian Jereza said his players need to get a good grip of the new balls that the Cesafi is using.

“First, we need to adjust to the ball. It’s over-inflated and slippery because it’s new. Next would be defense. And hopefully, fluid offense will follow,” said USP-F’s mentor.

Meanwhile, the reigning high school champions UC Baby Webmasters will tangle with their nemesis, the University of the Visayas Baby Lancers, in the curtain-raiser at 5 p.m. / (JNP)